Lorre revealed at the Television Critics Association's summer press tour (via The Hollywood Reporter): "Penny has an interesting arc this year where she puts acting down. She gets a shot to be a pharmaceutical rep at Bernadette's company."

The executive producer added that the job may cause tension between her and Leonard (Johnny Galecki).

Lorre explained: "She's going to start making some money, which will unbalance their relationship as the power shifts.

"She's going to find some confidence and self-esteem, which acting does not provide in great heaping doses."